Accutane, a medication intended to treat severe cases of acne, was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 1982. Since then, serious, long term side effects have been revealed by health care professionals and experienced by consumers. Prescribed to more than 16 million patients, Accutane was pulled from the market in 2009 by its manufacturer amidst countless lawsuits.
What is Accutane?
Manufactured by Hoffman-La Roche, Accutane (Isotretinoin) has been used to treat Rosacea, Pityriasis rubra pilaria, Neuroblastoma and Colitis in addition to severe case of Acne. Depending on the dosage and the patient, Accutane reduces sebum production, which, therefore decreases bacteria levels in the skin, leaving patients with a much clearer complexion. Accutane has been shown to:
- Reduce oil production
- Decrease cell build-ups that lead to blemishes
- Kill acne-causing bacteria
- Reduce inflammation and swelling associated with acne
Dangerous Side Effects and Complications
Although Accutane patients usually experience successful improvement of their complexion, the drug is accompanied by serious side effects that can affect users even after they have completed the dosage cycle. The acne medication has been linked to:
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Crohns disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Reduce inflammation and swelling associated with acne
- Serious birth defects
- Depression
- Suicide
Despite the severe implications associated with numerous side effects linked to Accutane, an increasing number of irritable bowel syndrome cases are being tied to previous Isotretinoin regimens. Retronic acid in Accutane has been shown to increase inflammation in the intestines, provoking a number of digestive issues, including: celiac disease, diarrhea, gas, bloating, fatigue and weight loss.
Even patients prescribed Accutane, or generic versions, months or years ago have experienced some of the painful and uncomfortable side effects as well as conditions and disorders sparked by use, highlighting the long term effects of the drug.
Known Danger
While the acne medication has been pulled from shelves in recent years, many accusations have surfaced, claiming that Accutane's manufacturer, Hoffman-La Roche, was aware of the effects the medication could have on the psychiatric and physical health of patients. Accusations stem from the lack of warning the manufacturer offered healthcare providers and new information about implications emerged.
Texas Accutane Attorney
If you or someone you know has endured physical or psychiatric pain or discomfort as a result of Accutane use, call our personal injury attorneys in Austin, San Antonio, Killeen and statewide Texas, contact us online or visit one of our 11 law offices in Texas
